Navigation

Your Wireless router often comes packaged with the default network SSID name and password which makes it easier to hack into once one is able to identify the manufacturer of your device.

In this article, we will show you how you can be able to change the password of the default network name by following these easy steps:

Step 1: Identify your router IP address

In the first step, you should be able to note the IP address of your router. Usually, this will involve accessing the web interface of the router. In most cases, your router IP address will be the same as the default gateway. To access this on your personal computer, open the command prompt and type the word "ipconfig".

On windows run PC the easiest way to access the command prompt will be by pressing the Windows key and the R key concurrently then typing the word cmd in the dialogue box that opens up. This shortcut opens the command prompt window in which you can the type the words ipconfig.

On a Macintosh powered device, click the Apple menu and choose system preferences. Next, click on the Network icon and then select the Wi-Fi or wired Ethernet connection which opens up a dialogue box. Proceed to click on Advanced and then click on the TCP/IP tab. On this page look up for the router's address to the right of Router tab.

Step 2: Access the web interface

With the IP address that you identified, type it into the address bar and press enter. You will then be prompted to enter the router's name and password to log in. You should be able to avail the information requested. If you had changed these to your personal preferences, enter the custom login information.

Suppose you do not remember the password you changed to you can reset your router to the default settings and proceed to key in the default login information.

Step 3: Change the Wi-Fi Name and Password

On successful login, look up for the Wi-Fi settings. Dependent on your router, these may be on a tab labelled Wireless or Wireless Networks. You may then be able to notice a tab marked SSID or Network Name. On this tab, you will note the password or Wireless Key field on which you can now change the router password to suit your preference.

Typically, it is recommended that you should choose a relatively long password with a combination of; letters in the uppercase, letters in the lower case and numbers.